Hand-Held Nebulizer Treatments

A nebulizer is a type of inhaler that sprays a fine, liquid mist of medication, commonly used in younger children who cannot use a metered dose inhaler. The device consists of an air compressor, a cup for medication and tubing connected to a mouthpiece or mask through which the medication is inhaled.

The medications used in nebulizers help your child by loosening the mucus in the lungs so it can be coughed out more easily, and by relaxing the airway muscles so that more air can move in and out of the lungs. Breathing the medication straight into the lungs can work better and faster than taking the medication by mouth, particularly in younger children who have a difficult time using a metered dose inhaler correctly. Nebulizer treatments take about 15 to 20 minutes to give the medication.

Giving a treatment

The following steps are recommended when giving a treatment to your child. However, always consult your child's doctor for specific instructions.

Gather supplies needed, including:

Medication to be nebulized

Nebulizer set (nebulizer cup, mouthpiece or mask, tubing to connect to nebulizer machine)

Find a quiet activity to do while your child sits up for the treatment (for example, reading a book or playing a quiet game).

Place the nebulizer on a flat surface (for example, table or the floor).

Plug the unit into a wall outlet.

Connect the air tubing to the nebulizer machine.

Put the medication into the nebulizer cup and screw the cap on securely.

Connect the other end of the air tubing to the nebulizer cup.

Connect the mouthpiece or face mask to the nebulizer cup.

Turn the machine on.

Check to make sure a fine mist of medication is coming through the face mask or mouthpiece.

Mouthpiece:

Place the mouthpiece in the child's mouth with the lips sealed around the mouthpiece.

Encourage your child to take slow deep breaths in and out of their mouth. The mist should "disappear" with each breath.

Face mask:

Place the mask over your child's mouth and nose. The adjustable elastic band may be used to hold the mask in place.

Encourage your child to take deep breaths in and out for the duration of the treatment.

Encourage your child to continue slow, deep breaths until all the medication in the nebulizer cup is gone. You may need to tap the sides of the nebulizer cup to ensure all medication is given.

Turn the nebulizer off.

If the child's treatment plan orders peak flow measurements, obtain these before the treatment starts and after the treatment is completed.

After each treatment

Disconnect the nebulizer cup from the tubing.

Open the cup and wash all pieces in a mild dish soap and water. (Do not wash or rinse the tubing.)

Rinse all pieces.

Air dry on a clean towel.

Store the dried nebulizer cup and tubing in a plastic bag.

Once a week rinse the nebulizer cup in a vinegar/water solution, as directed by you doctor, after washing.

Notes for parents

Stay with your child throughout the nebulizer treatment.

If your child should vomit or have a severe coughing spell during the treatment, stop the treatment, let the child rest for a few minutes, then resume the treatment.

Check the filter on the nebulizer machine once a week. When it becomes discolored, replace with a new filter.

Always keep a spare nebulizer kit at home. When you are down to your last two kits, contact your medical equipment company to deliver more.